PhrasesHub

Bottom line

    Definitions

      • final result or conclusion
        Referring to the ultimate or most important factor in a situation or decision-making process, often in a business or financial context

      • basic or essential information
        Summing up the key or essential points of a discussion or argument

      • underlying truth or reality
        Highlighting the fundamental or essential truth or reality of a situation or issue, often in a straightforward manner

    Examples of Bottom line

    • The company's financial performance has been lackluster for the past year, but the bottom line is that they still managed to turn a profit.

      "Bottom line" is a business idiom that refers to the final, most important piece of information in a situation. In this example, the bottom line is that the company made a profit, despite other issues with their financial performance.

    • After considering all the options, we came to the bottom line that it's simply not feasible to proceed with this project at this time.

      Here, "bottom line" is being used to mean the final, decisive conclusion that has been reached after considering all the factors.

    • The politician's speech was filled with rhetoric and empty promises, but the bottom line is that voters want results, not just words.

      In this example, "bottom line" is being used to mean the most important or significant point that needs to be understood or remembered.

    • The CEO's decision to lay off a significant portion of the workforce was a tough one, but the bottom line is that it was necessary to ensure the long-term viability of the company.

      Here, "bottom line" is being used to mean the most important or necessary action that needs to be taken, even if it's difficult or unpopular.

    • After months of negotiations, the two sides finally reached a bottom line agreement that satisfied both parties.

      In this example, "bottom line agreement" is being used to mean a final, decisive agreement that resolves all the issues and meets the needs of both parties.


    Conclusion

    The idiom "bottom line" can be used in various contexts to convey the final result or conclusion of a situation, the basic or essential information, or the underlying truth or reality. It is often used in business or financial discussions, but can also be applied in everyday conversations.

    In terms of the final result or conclusion, the bottom line is the ultimate outcome or decision that is reached after considering all factors. It is often used to emphasize the most important factor or the end result. For example, a company's bottom line may refer to its overall profits or losses, indicating the ultimate success or failure of the business.

    When referring to basic or essential information, the bottom line is used to summarize the key points or main takeaways of a conversation or argument. It is a way to cut through unnecessary details and focus on the most important aspects. For instance, someone might say "let's get to the bottom line" when they want to get to the essential information or main point of a discussion.

    Finally, when discussing the underlying truth or reality of a situation, the bottom line is used to emphasize the fundamental or essential truth. It is often used in a straightforward and direct manner, without sugarcoating or beating around the bush. For example, someone might say "the bottom line is, we need to work harder if we want to succeed."

    Origin of "Bottom line"

    The origin of this idiom can be traced back to accounting terminology. In financial documents, the bottom line refers to the final figure or net profit at the end of a statement. This use of the term dates back to the mid-19th century.

    Over time, the term evolved to be used in a more general sense, beyond just financial contexts. It became a way to refer to the ultimate or most important factor in any situation. The idiom has become a popular phrase in business and everyday conversations, with its straightforward and concise nature making it a useful tool for communication.

    In summary, the idiom "bottom line" originated in accounting terminology and has evolved to be used in various contexts to convey the final result or conclusion, basic or essential information, and the underlying truth or reality of a situation. Its concise and direct nature makes it a valuable phrase in communication.